1. Sen. Angus King is speaking out about “deep fakes.” An unfamiliar term for most Americans but not something new. It is not much different from the digital manipulation used in the movies for years to enhance or alter reality to show convincing video that appears real. King said it is now easy to conjure up a realistic-looking, computer-generated video showing him talking about something that is completely fake. U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, who serves on the intelligence panel with King, said fake video can be created of a public figure taking a bribe or making an insensitive racial comment.
(Press Herald)
2. Repairs stemming from a water main break on Ocean Street, also known as Route 77, in South Portland are likely to last well into today, the South Portland Police Department said on its Facebook page Wednesday night. The road, which connects South Portland with Cape Elizabeth, was closed at Sawyer Street around 5 p.m. yesterday as water flooded into the street. The road will remain closed until repairs are completed, police said. They ask commuters to plan alternative routes and allow for extra travel time. The post said the flow of water was washing away the road.
(Press Herald)
3. On Wednesday, the NCAA announced sweeping changes to college basketball rules in the wake of an FBI investigation into recruiting. Among the big changes: Elite prospects–a designation to be determined by USA Basketball and the NCAA–will be allowed to sign with an agent in high school or college, while players who aren’t drafted out of the NBA combine can return to their previous school. In another big move, school presidents and chancellors will now be responsible for making sure athletic departments abide by NCAA guidelines. ESPN reports the NBA and USA Basketball were reportedly “blindsided with timing and changes,” with the latter group not necessarily willing or able to be the entity defining elite prospects.
(CBS Sports)
4. Some doctors are concerned that people, particularly young adults, are getting more plastic surgery as Snapchat filters and other face-altering apps become the norm on social media. Dr. Neelam Vashi, director of the Boston University Cosmetic and Laser Center, tells BuzzFeed that the filters can lead to unrealistic beauty expectations. “I can easily accept not looking like a celebrity, but it’s much harder for me to accept that I can’t look like an enhanced version of myself from a social media filter,” Vashi explains. “It makes it much more close to home.” She goes on to say that plastic surgeons should be “aware of the influence of social media” when speaking to young people about procedures they want done.
(BuzzFeed)
5. Saturday, September 1 (Labor Day Weekend) Hot 104.7 & Grass Monkey Present another #HOTSHOW starring Lil Jon at the State Theatre. Just added King Combs and Caye. Tickets are ON SALE HERE! Charge by phone at 800-745-3000, in person at the Port City Music Hall box office Wednesday-Friday 10AM-5PM or online at Hot1047Maine.com.
